DEHUROEN

Plizio Visual Lab

Quebrada de los Cuervos

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Mountain
—°
Quebrada de los Cuervos (Uruguay)

Weather…

Quebrada de los Cuervos (Ravine of the Crows) is a striking gorge and protected area located in the Treinta y Tres Department. It was carved by the Yerbal Chico stream into the rocky landscape of the Sierra de los Ríos. Created in 1986 and later expanded in 2008, the protected area is part of the National System of Protected Areas (SNAP) and covers 369 hectares. The gorge is approximately 100 meters deep, and its slopes are covered by a subtropical forest, a microclimate distinct from the surrounding grasslands. This unique habitat supports plant and animal species more typical of southern Brazil. The name 'Ravine of the Crows' is actually a misnomer; the large black birds that inhabit it are not crows, but turkey vultures (Cathartes aura). The area is a popular destination for ecotourism, offering hiking trails, viewpoints, and opportunities to observe its rich biodiversity. The landscape formation is the result of millions of years of river erosion.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C222220171311101213161820
Rain mm1061311001231241079412613013287108

📋 Practical info

🧭
Getting there
The gorge is typically reached via unpaved country roads starting from the surrounding rural centers. The final few kilometers often strongly require a cautious and significantly slower driving style.
📅
Best season
Spring and autumn are arguably the best seasons for hiking through the dense vegetation here. In summer, it is often oppressively hot, which makes the steep ascent noticeably more difficult.
⛰️
Terrain & paths
The trail leading into the bottom of the gorge is characterized by uneven, stony sections and some very steep drops. Surefootedness is strictly necessary in this wild and rugged terrain.
🎒
What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots with an excellent tread are absolutely essential for safely navigating the steep slopes. A reliable insect repellent and a small backpack with provisions round out the gear.
🅿️
Parking
There is usually a designated central parking area located directly at the main entrance of the nature reserve. From there, most visitors start their hikes straight into the deep river valley.
⚠️
Safety
The rocks right near the water can be extremely slippery; particular caution is strongly advised. Additionally, you should respect the local wildlife and always maintain a safe, proper distance.
⏱️
Time needed
For the steep descent into the gorge and the exhausting climb back up, one typically expects about three to four hours. Rest breaks on the riverbank are usually comfortably integrated into this time.

Geography

Coordinates
-32.93330, -54.31670

Facts

  • The gorge is approximately 100 meters deep.
  • It was formed by the Yerbal Chico stream.
  • The protected area was established in 1986.
  • The 'crows' are actually turkey vultures (Cathartes aura).
  • The area has a subtropical microclimate.
  • It is part of the National System of Protected Areas (SNAP).

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Quebrada de los Cuervos GorgeQuebrada de los Cuervos Gorge17 km · SExplore →
Ejido de Treinta y TresEjido de Treinta y Tres20 km · WExplore →
Treinta y TresTreinta y Tres21 km · WExplore →
Fraile MuertoFraile Muerto36 km · SEExplore →
Cerro de las EspadasCerro de las Espadas40 km · EExplore →
MeloMelo40 km · EExplore →
José Pedro VarelaJosé Pedro Varela41 km · SWExplore →
Posta del ChuyPosta del Chuy43 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the Quebrada de los Cuervos demanding for hiking?
Yes, the terrain is hilly and rocky; good physical condition and sturdy shoes are recommended.
Do I have to pay an entry fee?
Yes, it is a protected area that charges an entry fee.
Are there accommodation options?
Nearby there are campsites and simple accommodations, but no large hotels.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring gives the most beautiful colors and the most pleasant temperatures.
Do you need a guide?
A guide is not strictly necessary for the main marked trails, but highly recommended for deeper insights.
Quebrada de los Cuervos: where is it located?
Quebrada de los Cuervos is located in Uruguay.
Quebrada de los Cuervos: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Dec.
Quebrada de los Cuervos: why is it worth visiting?
Quebrada de los Cuervos (Ravine of the Crows) is a striking gorge and protected area located in the Treinta y Tres Department.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
South America
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in South America
More places in Uruguay →

Nearby cities

Ejido de Treinta y Tres — Quebrada de los Cuervos (Uruguay)
Ejido de Treinta y Tres
Ejido de Treinta y Tres is an important city in the TT department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Treinta y Tres — Quebrada de los Cuervos (Uruguay)
Treinta y Tres
Treinta y Tres is the capital city of the TT department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.
Vergara — Quebrada de los Cuervos (Uruguay)
Vergara
Vergara is an important city in the TT department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Fraile Muerto — Quebrada de los Cuervos (Uruguay)
Fraile Muerto
Fraile Muerto is an important city in the CL department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Melo — Quebrada de los Cuervos (Uruguay)
Melo
Melo is the capital city of the CL department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.
José Pedro Varela — Quebrada de los Cuervos (Uruguay)
José Pedro Varela
José Pedro Varela is an important city in the LA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Lascano — Quebrada de los Cuervos (Uruguay)
Lascano
Lascano is an important city in the RO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.

More places

Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge — Quebrada de los Cuervos (Uruguay)
Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge
This steep gorge is a biodiversity hotspot and home to numerous vulture and bird of prey species.
Montes del Río Cebollatí — Quebrada de los Cuervos (Uruguay)
Montes del Río Cebollatí
Dense forests along one of the most important rivers in eastern Uruguay.
🗺️
Cerro de las Espadas
A rocky hill known for its sharp ridges.
Posta del Chuy — Quebrada de los Cuervos (Uruguay)
Posta del Chuy
A historical rest house and bridge structure in the Cerro Largo Department from the mid-19th century.